Thursday, August 27, 2009

The High Road to Taos: Ortega's Weaving Gallery


The High Road to Taos is a beautiful drive between Santa Fe and Taos, New Mexico. Eve with the scenery, the drive becomes more interesting if you can stop at various artisan studios along the way.

Our Retreat group's first stop was at Ortega's Weaving Gallery and Shop in Chimayo.

Ortega's Weaving Gallery and Shop

www.ortegasweaving.com
CR 98 at NM 76
Chimayo, NM 87522
Phone: 505-351-4215

Robert Ortega explained the Ortega family history. They have been weaving for 300 years, but commercially since 1900. The style of weaving is traditional, and pulls its roots from Spain during the 17th century. It is known as Chimayo or Rio Grande weaving. The looms are of Euopean origin. Wool is the fiber of choice.

Robert demonstrated the weaving process on a rug loom as well as a blanket loom. Below you can see some shots of the weaving process, as well as a rug on the loom.





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